The Best Workout Shorts for Men in 2024

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The ease of movement and flexibility a pair of workout shorts offers can be critical to getting in a good workout and maximizing your fitness performance. Whether it's getting that full hip rotation when throwing a proper punch or being able to push your legs to the limit during sprints or lunges, the shorts you use to train are undeniably important.

In addition, the materials and construction of shorts are crucial. Poorly designed workout clothes can lead to problematic chafing or dermatitis, deterring your training regimen, compromising performance and even making you feel uncomfortable (in the worst of places) throughout the day. Knowing which workout shorts are best for you and your fitness goals requires a little research. Here, we’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you. Below are the best workout shorts for men available in 2024 that may help improve your workout experience (and life).

Our Picks for the Best Workout Shorts for Men in 2024:

• Best Overall Workout Shorts for Men: adidas Designed for Training Shorts
• Best Cross-Training Shorts for Men: Gymshark Sport 5-inch 2-in-1 Shorts
• Best Weightlifting Shorts for Men: NoBull Men’s Stretch Woven Shorts
• Best Running Shorts for Men: Janji 5-inch AFO Middle Shorts
• Best Yoga Shorts for Men: lululemon Balancer Shorts
• Best Gym Shorts for Men: Nike Unlimited Shorts
• Best Compression Shorts for Men: Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts
• Best Value Workout Shorts for Men: Alphalete Infinity Core Stride Shorts
• Best Workout Shorts With Pockets for Men: Alo Yoga 7-inch Repetition Shorts

Best Overall Workout Shorts for Men: adidas Designed for Training Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $40
• Sizes: XS–XXL
• Colors: Black, court green, silver pebble, bright red, olive strata, pulse lime
• Inseam: Five inches, seven inches, nine inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane
• Best for: All types of workouts

The Designed for Training Shorts by adidas offer ease of movement and comfort for all types of fitness. The multi-faceted workout shorts allow you to switch easily from strength to cardio-based training. They're designed to be as tough as they are stretchy, giving them that versatility that distinguishes them from the rest. Furthermore, these shorts are made with adidas' Aeroready moisture-wicking technology designed to absorb sweat and maintain essential airflow while training. In addition, the shorts have a gusseted crotch seam that helps to prevent chafing or stress around a sensitive area. The shorts also have an elastic waistband and drawstring, making them easy to fit into and adjust according to exercise, plus two zipped front pockets for further practicality.

Adidas uses almost entirely recycled polyester in the Designed for Training Shorts and offers them in six unique colors and a range of sizes. While great for HIIT, CrossFit or diverse gym sessions, the shorts also have a stylish look that makes them excellent for casual wear. They're versatile and practical, making them a top overall workout short for men today.

Pros:

• Designed to prevent chafing and sweat build-up in sensitive areas
• Multiple inseam options for each size
• Produced with recycled materials

Cons:

• Not available with lining

Best Cross-Training Shorts for Men: Gymshark Sport 5-Inch 2-in-1 Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $42
• Sizes: XS–3XL
• Colors: (outer layer/ inner layer): Aerospace orange/silhouette gray, silhouette gray/black, black/silhouette gray, willow green/desert sage green, denim blue/navy, willow green/black, onyx/gray, velvet purple (both layers), slate blue, winter teal, woodland green/hoya green, baked maroon/salsa red
• Inseam: Five inches
• Lined or unlined: Lined
• Materials: Recycled polyester
• Best for: Cross-training

Gymshark’s 2-in-1 Sports Shorts are designed to adapt to most exercises with comfort and support. Made entirely with recycled polyester, Gymshark created a pair of shorts with a tight inner lining for breathable support and a good-looking outer layer of protective fabric. The interior layer has a breathable but firm spandex-like hold which is great for running, biking or stretching. The outer layer offers a stylish athletic look and protection from the elements.

Don’t let the durable, two-in-one design fool you—the shorts are exceptionally lightweight. Two front zippered pockets for your essentials make them practical for long-distance runs or casual wear outside the gym. The adjustable waist cord is found inside the waistband, so it won't pop out and interrupt when you're training. The versatile design makes them a great go-to pair of shorts for cross-training.

Pros:

• Adjustable inner waist cord
• Offers compression support

Cons:

• Every size comes with the same five-inch seam

Best Weightlifting Shorts for Men: NoBull Men’s Stretch Woven Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $72
• Sizes: S–3XL
• Colors: Brown heather, black, Army green heather, graphite heather, dark shadow heather, coastal blue heather
• Inseam: Five inches, nine inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane
• Best for: Weightlifting

NoBull is well-known as a company of athletes from all backgrounds and walks of life, designing and producing top-tier apparel and equipment for those who share a passion for training (without cutting corners). NoBull's Stretch Woven Gym Shorts are designed to be as durable as they are breathable and lightweight. Specifically, the company's four-way stretch woven performance fabric blend used to produce the shorts makes them highly durable yet easy to move in.

NoBull's Stretch Woven shorts are available in four sleek colors, with the brand's reflective logo visible from the front. The shorts have a nice adjustable waistband and are made of nylon, polyester and spandex for a fusion of fabric and design that makes for a breathable, supported and flexible strength training experience. These NoBull shorts are great for athletes looking for reliable shorts for lifting weights.

Pros:

• Durable yet lightweight fabric blend
• One-year warranty
• Available in five- and nine-inch inseam

Cons:

• Fans of brightly colored shorts may not appreciate the fewer and darker color options

Best Running Shorts for Men: Janji 5-Inch AFO Middle Short

Key Features:

• Price: $64
• Sizes: S–XL
• Colors: Midnight, verdant, terrain, ultramarine
• Inseam: Five inches (three- and seven-inch variations available)
• Lined or unlined: Lined
• Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester
• Best for: Running

From casual jogging to marathon running, it can be annoying to find a pair of shorts that packs the essentials without disrupting your stride. Janji's AFO Middle Short features a rear zipper pocket that can securely store a phone. Furthermore, a light key loop bungee and internal drop-down pocket make for easy key attachment to the front waistband.

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Beyond a zipper pocket for your valuables, the shorts have a supportive perforated inner lining for airflow, moisture-wicking, anti-odor and chafing protection. The waistband uses an infinity drawcord, which is great for washing them without the headache of losing your cord.

In addition to a professional-grade build and simple yet smooth outer shorts layer, Janji donates two percent of all its profits to non-profits delivering clean water where it's needed worldwide. 

Pros:

• Secure rear zipper pocket
• Moisture-wicking brief liner
• Janji donates two percent of its profits to clean drinking water initiatives

Cons:

• Not available in a size larger than XL

Best Yoga Shorts for Men: lululemon Balancer Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $88
• Sizes: XS–XXL
• Colors: Heathered kohlrabi green, heathered date brown, tactile Jacquard alack anchor, heathered chambray, heathered raw linen, heathered black
• Inseam: Six inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Lycra elastane, polyester, nylon
• Best for: Yoga

Whether hot or at room temperature, yoga is done best with shorts that promote flexibility, quality airflow and support. Lululemon's Balancer Shorts are explicitly designed for yoga to deliver exactly this. Made with lululemon’s Everlux fabric technology, the shorts will preserve comfort and breathability regardless of a studio's temperature. In addition, Lycra (spandex-like fibers) is built into the shorts to help adapt to your movements with flexible support. While perfect for yoga, their comfortable yet supportive build also makes them great for daily life. The Balancer Shorts have a slim fit and zippered pockets that make them great for a casual hangout, drinks after yoga class or running errands comfortably. Some yogi reviews on lululemon.com attest to these shorts feeling like doing yoga naked, with others claiming the shorts feel like a supportive hug during their yoga sessions.

Pros:

• Quality athleisure look
• Designed specifically for yoga

Cons:

• Sizes may run small for people with more muscular legs

Best Gym Shorts for Men: Nike Unlimited Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $60
• Sizes: XS–4XL
• Colors: Obsidian black, bronzine, rugged orange, bright cactus, cobalt bliss, monarch, Baltic blue, neutral olive, rush fuchsia, black, smoke gray
• Inseam: Five inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane
• Best for: A day at the gym

When I have enough time to train properly, I like to dress for all workout possibilities. The Dri-Fit Unlimited Shorts from Nike are designed to be versatile and adapt to most fitness activities. Great for everything from burpees to bench presses to a yoga session, the Unlimited shorts are designed to allow you to choose your exercises or try out new machines on the fly.

The Unlimited shorts are made with spandex and recycled polyester for a stretchy but comfortable feel that will leave you feeling supported yet flexible. The shorts are also designed to be sweat-wicking, helping to fight odor and chafing. Furthermore, the shorts include two side pockets and a hidden pocket designed to hold your phone safely whether navigating the gym or running to it from home. Overall, the versatility and comfort of Nike’s Unlimited shorts make these perfect for a day at the gym, no matter what workout planned you have planned.

Pros:

• Decorative black drawcord
• Multi-function fitness design
• Heavier size options

Cons:

• Pockets do not have zippers

Best Compression Shorts for Men: Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $30
• Sizes: XS–4XL
• Colors: Black, carbon heather, white, beige, velocity, marine green, royal, midnight navy, darling blue, red, cardinal, team orange, sky blue
• Inseam: Six inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Polyester, elastane
• Best for: Compression support

Compression shorts can stimulate blood flow and maintain support. Research has even found that they may improve your running economy. Under Armour's HeatGear compression shorts offer the benefits of compression while still being breathable and comfortable. Mesh panels are installed into the shorts for ventilation, while the HeatGear's overall fabric is designed to wick moisture and dry sweat fast. A large phone pocket, compatible with most cell phone sizes, is built into the right side of the shorts for easy storage to keep your phone form bouncing around during your run or training session. A reinforced crotch gusset helps to maintain comfort and support while delivering efficient airflow to sensitive places.

You can expect the shorts to adapt to your movements with flexible but durable support, thanks to the four-way stretch fabric. Notably, the HeatGear shorts' ergonomic design optimizes support for areas prone to abrasion, further helping to prevent rashes or chafing. Great to wear on their own or underneath a loose set of shorts, Under Armour's HeatGear compression shorts are a go-to for fitness enthusiasts who want to experience the benefits of compression shorts during their next workout.

Pros:

• All sizes come in regular or tall length
• Durable and large cell-phone-sized pocket

Cons:

• No fly

Best Value Workout Shorts for Men: Alphalete Infinity Core Stride Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $38
• Sizes: XS–3XL
• Colors: Whale blue, burgundy, mocha, black, fog blue, muted purple
• Inseam: Five inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Nylon, elastane
• Best for: Value

The Core Stride shorts from Alphalete offer all the performance-supporting attributes of most competitive workout shorts and cost less than $40. The Core Stride has a five-inch inseam that is reinforced for durable support. The shorts are built to be water-resistant and quick-drying, making them great for running in the heat or hiking and you won’t suffer from odor build-up or discomfort. The shorts are built to be stretchy and adapt to your movements, are available in various colors and contain a hidden zipper pocket. The Core Stride is excellent for the gym, outdoor workouts or daily life, delivering top-tier workout features associated with costlier athletic shorts without putting a hole in your wallet.

Pros:

• Reflective tape detailing on the right leg is helpful for night running
• Water-resistant

Cons:

• Fans of baggy-fitting shorts may want to reconsider

Best Workout Shorts With Pockets for Men: Alo Yoga 7-inch Repetition Shorts

Key Features:

• Price: $68
• Sizes: S–XXL
• Colors: Titanium, gravel, navy, anthracite, black
• Inseam: Seven inches
• Lined or unlined: Unlined
• Materials: Polyester, spandex, nylon
• Best for: Workout shorts with pockets

Shorts that are as practical in the gym as at the coffee shop need a sleek look, supportive build and, of course, pockets. The Repetition Shorts from Alo Yoga are as functional as they are fashionable. The Repetition shorts are built with a cordless adjustable waistband, moisture-wicking fabric and a modern look, making them as great for yoga sessions as they are for lounging with friends.

Built with a seven-inch seam in every size, they fit almost all sizes and shapes with comfort and support. The shorts also have a back pocket in addition to the front two, reinforcing their practicality in and outside the gym.

Pros:

• Fashionable look
• Moisture-wicking fabric

Cons:

• Limited color options

How To Choose The Best Gym Shorts For You

Determining the best men’s workout shorts for you is based on your fitness and lifestyle needs. You may want shorts solely for running on the track or a pair made for weightlifting at the gym. You may want a pair of comfortable shorts you can wear out. Or maybe you just want a pair of shorts that serve all these purposes. Typically, shorts will advertise their specialities and versatility and will have a plethora of user reviews to help you choose.

Most importantly, the materials used to make your workout shorts should enable mobility, be moisture-wicking and offer comfortable support as you move. Before choosing the right workout shorts, have a budget in mind, then ensure they are available in a proper fitting size, have positive reviews and are made with supportive, breathable fabrics.

Lined vs. Unlined Gym Shorts

Lined performance shorts are built with an inner lining similar to the one found in most bathing suits. The inner lining makes underwear unnecessary while offering compression (like workout leggings), durable support, moisture-wicking and anti-chafing benefits. Unlined shorts are standard gym shorts you wear with underwear. Unlined shorts may be easier to move in or find the right fit for some due to the lack of a compression brief liner.

How We Chose The Best Gym Shorts For Men

By considering the most important characteristics of gym shorts to athletes or individuals looking to start working out, we chose our favorites according to their most stand-out features. Functionality, fitness benefits and price are a few of the essential considerations we made before presenting our top picks.

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Workout Shorts for Men FAQs

What is the best material for gym shorts?

Typically, there are three common materials used to make the best men’s workout shorts.

• Polyester: A light, durable and breathable material
• Nylon: A quick-drying material (dries fast)
• Spandex: (Also known as elastane.) Offers stretchiness

What is the best length for men's gym shorts?

Men's gym shorts are usually made with a five-, seven- or nine-inch inch inseam (the length of the short). The inseam of your gym shorts should reflect your preference, but if you’re not sure what length is best for you, you can base your choice on height. For men under six feet, try a five- to seven-inch inseam short and, for those over six feet, try a nine-inch inseam short.

How tight should men’s gym shorts be?

This depends on what you feel comfortable in. While tight-fitting lined gym shorts offer the benefits of compression for some, others may find them uncomfortable or feel that they limit their movements compared to unlined shorts. It is a matter of preference and finding the right fit. Note that companies typically market their shorts to men and women, with men’s shorts having a looser fit and women’s shorts having a tighter fit, which may help guide you to the right fit short for you.

Should I wear anything under my gym shorts?

If you are wearing lined gym shorts, underwear is unnecessary. However, unlined shorts are designed to be worn with underwear.

Final Thoughts

Similar to how gym shoes can affect your performance, if you want to avoid limited movement or nightmarish chafing when you train, choosing the right workout shorts for men is not something to take lightly.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.